MLB takes Fan Cave experience to the next level in 2012

So, as many of our readers know, one of our writers was a finalist for the MLB Fan Cave this year, and we tried to get him in the door by promoting him … but he didn’t make the final cut. Nonetheless, it was cool to have him write about his experience and very cool for him to even be in the running.

Speaking of the Fan Cave, MLB is going above and beyond this year. After last year’s test run, they seem to be on top of their game this year. I didn’t think they would honestly make it past last year, but after getting a big group together for this season, a bunch of players have decided to do a lot more than just swing by and play video games.

From Miguel Cabrera to Justin Verlander, the Fan Cave has attracted baseball’s biggest stars. It really is a great story when players drop by and visit the crew in the Fan Cave.

If you haven’t seen the video of Miguel “Paco” Cabrera, it’s a good one! The best part is where Cabrera holds a fake Leyland in his arms, as he dies. It’s good stuff; I suggest watching it.

R.A. Dickey made an appearance, as well, to help out the MLB Fan Cave. During his visit, he promoted his new book, “Wherever I Wind Up,” about his journey to find “his” perfect knuckleball. He also visited Thompson Square Park in New York City to play some backyard wiffle ball. Oh man, what I would give to play some backyard wiffle ball against a professional baseball player! Just imagine growing up a Mets fan (I wouldn’t!) and meeting your favorite player for some backyard wiffle ball.

Perhaps the biggest appearance so far, and the biggest feel-good story, was Verlander surprising Shayna Hersh, an 11-year-old girl with cystic fibrosis. It’s a great story, and if you haven’t read about it, check it out here.

Maybe someone could take me to the Fan Cave to meet Chipper Jones. Is that too much to ask?